The Mediterranean: Not a Union, but an Integrated Space?

Abstract

This study examines several multilateral cooperation initiatives in the Mediterranean and by discussing their failures in generating a genuine cooperation, it hypothesizes about an integrated Mediterraneanspace, where prime challenges might lead to a loose functional framework of integration. In puttingforward this hypothetical integrated space, the study begins with discussing prime challenges in theregion: security, migration and environment, and it proceeds with early multilateral cooperationattempts. Among these, it focuses its attention on two ambitious ones: Euro-Mediterranean Partnershipand the Union for the Mediterranean, and underlines the disappointments in these attempts in realizingpeace and prosperity in the region. The study concludes that an integrated space in the Mediterranean,which takes European integration experience as a model, might offer a better solution to the commonproblems in the region with a precondition that southern Mediterranean states are provided a clearperspective in a sincere and equal partnership.